As another year draws to a close and many of us begin to wind down for Christmas, we look back and recap some of our blog highlights – diverse and informative topics from the year that was.
Here-to-Stay Food Trends – Sustainability
The farm-to-table movement, which emphasises sourcing ingredients from local farmers, has been growing in popularity for several decades. Consumers are becoming more conscious about the origin and production methods of the food they consume. This has led to a growing demand for products that are sourced ethically and sustainably. This includes fair trade products, locally sourced produce, and foods that are made with environmentally friendly practices. This trend is not only good for the environment, but it also supports local farmers and helps to create a stronger sense of community.
Chipotle Peppers – Spicy and Smoky
Chipotle peppers, which in a nutshell are smoke-dried ripe jalapeño chilli peppers have a long and interesting history, and they have become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. The word "chipotle" comes from the Nahuatl word "chilpoctli," which means "smoked chilli pepper." Chipotle peppers have been a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine for centuries and were first used by the Aztecs in the 16th century. They were commonly used to add flavour and heat to dishes like stews, soups, and sauces.
Food Tech – Bespoke AI Oven
Samsung presented a variety of pioneering kitchen appliances, including their Bespoke AI Oven. This oven incorporates an internal camera and AI to detect potential burning risks when preparing recognised dishes using the recommended cooking mode, temperature, and time. In the event of a potential issue, the user receives a notification. Not only that, but the oven uses data analysis of the user's dietary and exercise goals to suggest recipes based on ingredients already available in the user's home.
Master the Art of Plating – Balance and Composition
The arrangement of food on a plate should exhibit balance and composition. Visual appeal is achieved by considering the size, colour, and shape of each component. Plating with a variety of textures and heights creates visual interest. For example, pairing a juicy protein with crispy vegetables or adding a dollop of sauce can provide a contrast of textures. The golden rule is to strike a balance between the elements, ensuring that no single component dominates the plate. This creates harmony and enhances the overall aesthetic.
Mindful Eating – Being Present and Listening to Your Body
Mindful eating is about fully experiencing the act of eating. This means noticing the colours, smells, textures, and tastes of your food, as well as the sounds of chewing and swallowing. It encourages diners to savour each bite, paying close attention to the nuances of flavour and the sensations of fullness. Listening involves recognising hunger and satiety cues. Instead of eating based on external triggers (like time of day, or seeing a tempting advertisement), those who practice mindful eating consume food in response to actual physiological hunger and stop when they’re full.
And finally, with mindfulness in mind, as the year draws to a close and we look back at 2023, our hearts are filled with gratitude for everyone who has supported and journeyed with us. Thank you for choosing us, and thank you for trusting our products and services - we are honoured to serve you! Here's to a joyous and healthy festive season for all!